June Pierce with host Julia Widdop

Buford is a large, lonely bullfrog. Having left his home in the wetlands, he is excited to be living in Sweet Valley where the pond is a flurry of activity. As he watches others play, Buford is not asked to join them. His anger and jealousy lead to bullying. Buford finds out the hard way that his behavior needs to change. Buford lumbers through the marsh, angry and confused about being banished from Sweet Valley. He had hoped for friendships and a new home but that is all over… When a friendly turtle, by the name of Twemmy meets Buford along the marsh path he gives Buford some advice about friendship. Buford dismisses it, and they depart in opposite directions. Twemmy’s advice lingers and Buford, more confused than ever, carelessly leaps into unknown territory and finds himself in a desperate situation. Croaking loudly, for someone to rescue him, Buford soon learns some valuable lessons in friendship. Through the antics of an overbearing bullfrog, the Buford Series offers strategies to overcome bullying, including social skills and an understanding of consequences and learned behavior for both the bully and intended victim. June Pierce, now retired after a teaching career, has a master’s degree in both education and special education. A native of northern New York State, she has lived in the Hudson Valley for more than thirty years. She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. She is a published author and Folk Artist, teaching Early American Decoration and European Folk Art in her studio in Hyde Park, New York.